One of the unique things about the Red Cross is that nearly all donated money goes where it's intended. Kirschbaum said 92 cents of each donor dollar goes directly to helping people. And not a single penny the Red Cross spends comes from the federal government, Kirschbaum said.

Disaster services continue, with volunteers throughout northwest Iowa. And abroad, the Red Cross makes it possible for members of the military to get home on emergency leave.

As always, volunteers are needed. Kirschbaum noted national volunteer opportunities - such as Hurricane Sandy - as well as locally for such events as blood drives, the Okoboji Marathon, the Ride for the Red and a booth at the Clay County Fair. And volunteer classes are free, including CPR.